Career Profiles

In this episode, we dive into the pivotal year of 1987 — the year Mike Tyson conquered the boxing world and became the undisputed heavyweight champion. From his unrelenting training under Kevin Rooney to his explosive unification bouts against James “Bonecrusher” Smith, Pinklon Thomas, and Tony Tucker, this chapter explores how Tyson’s power, speed, and discipline fused into one unstoppable force. We’ll uncover the stories behind the fights, the media frenzy surrounding his meteoric rise, and the mindset that made “Iron Mike” a global phenomenon. Join us as we trace the moments that defined Tyson’s reign and cemented his place in boxing history. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Part Four of our Mike Tyson Career Profile series, we continue to chart the meteoric rise of a young fighter destined to change boxing forever. It’s 1986 — the year everything came together for “Iron” Mike. From his relentless schedule of knockout victories to the mentorship of Cus D’Amato’s remaining team, we follow Tyson’s transformation from a teenage phenom into a global sensation. This episode documents his unstoppable momentum through the heavyweight ranks — the fights, the media frenzy, and the mounting pressure that came with each devastating win — all leading to that historic night when he became the youngest heavyweight champion in boxing history. Join us as we relive the power, precision, and raw emotion of Tyson’s breakthrough year — a moment when the myth of “Iron Mike” became a reality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Part Three of our Mike Tyson Career Profile, we cover one of the most pivotal stretches of his life: his first year as a professional fighter. Bursting onto the scene in 1985, Tyson racked up knockout after knockout, showcasing the devastating speed and power that would make him a global sensation. But behind the highlight reels and rapid ascent, Tyson was also dealing with a profound personal loss—the passing of his legendary mentor and trainer, Cus D’Amato. This episode explores how Tyson channeled his grief into the ring, using boxing as both an outlet and a way to honor Cus’s vision. We’ll walk through the stories of his early opponents, the growing media frenzy around the young phenom, and the intense buildup to his shot at the heavyweight title. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the second installment of The Mike Tyson Career Profile, we dive into the raw, formative years of a young fighter destined for greatness. From the gritty gyms of Catskill, New York, under the watchful eye of legendary trainer Cus D’Amato, Tyson rapidly rose through the amateur boxing ranks. His explosive power and relentless aggression made him a standout in the junior circuits, culminating in national titles and high hopes for Olympic gold. But the road to the 1984 Olympics ended in heartbreak, as Tyson failed to make the U.S. team—a bitter disappointment that would ignite an even deeper hunger in the young contender. As the dream of Olympic glory slipped away, Tyson and D’Amato turned their full focus toward the professional ranks, forging a plan to unleash a new kind of heavyweight on the world stage. Through expert commentary and firsthand accounts, this episode captures the critical transition from amateur promise to professional preparation—where discipline was sharpened, demons loomed, and a legend began to emerge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The opening chapter of Mike Tyson’s life story immerses you in his tumultuous childhood in Brownsville, recounting gripping moments that propelled him toward Catskill. There, a fateful meeting with Cus D’Amato ignites a dramatic journey destined to become legendary. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the concluding chapter of Jersey Joe Walcott's remarkable journey, Sean brings to life the pivotal moments that shaped Walcott into a boxing legend. He explores how Walcott not only carved out a lasting legacy in the ring but also emerged as a beacon of inspiration for the youth of tomorrow. Additionally, Sean touches upon Walcott's intriguing foray into Hollywood, where his larger-than-life persona continued to captivate audiences. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the captivating second chapter of Jersey Joe Walcott's journey, Sean invites you to delve deeper into the remarkable career of this New Jersey native. With thrilling accounts of his standout clashes against Elmer Ray and Joey Maxim, the narrative builds to the electrifying world title bouts against legends Joe Louis and Ezzard Charles, showcasing the indomitable spirit and tenacity of Walcott’s boxing legacy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the captivating opening of this story, Sean draws you into the early life of Arnold Cream, famously known as Jersey Joe Walcott. He paints a vivid picture of the struggles and poverty that Walcott and his family faced, setting the stage for his extraordinary journey into the world of boxing. With every detail, Sean reveals the remarkable challenges that shaped Walcott’s career, inviting you to witness the resilience and determination that defined his path to greatness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the concluding chapter of Chris Eubank's remarkable journey, we delve into the twilight of his boxing career, examining his gripping bouts against formidable opponents such as Steve Collins, Joe Calzaghe, and Carl Thompson. Beyond the ring, we uncover the intriguing stories and adventures that define the man, revealing the charisma and complexity that have captivated fans worldwide. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the second installment of Chris Eubank's captivating journey, we delve into the defining moments that shaped his illustrious career. This includes his unforgettable bouts with Nigel Benn and Michael Watson, each brimming with drama and intensity. Additionally, we unveil the intriguing side stories that reveal significant transformations in Eubank's life—changes that would leave a lasting impact on his future in the boxing world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the inaugural episode of the Chris Eubank Career Profile, Sean masterfully unveils the captivating origins of Eubank's story. He delves into his tumultuous teenage years in London and explores the eye-opening experiences he encountered in New York. This remarkable journey sets the stage for the rise of a legendary professional boxing career, filled with grit, determination, and an unyielding spirit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the concluding section of Wilfredo Gomez's career profile, we highlight the poignant decline of a once-unstoppable fighter. As he faces the inevitability of retirement, he also embraces his remarkable legacy, having secured a third world title across three different weight classes, cementing his indelible impact on the boxing world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the thrilling third part of the Wilfredo Gomez story, get ready to delve into the intense showdown with Salvador Sanchez. Discover how the aftermath of this epic battle fueled Gomez's determination to prove the naysayers wrong, leading to another legendary fight in his career against Lupe Pintor. It's a tale of resilience, redemption, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the second part of Wilfredo Gomez's life and career, we delve into his dominant championship reign at 122lbs, capturing the thrilling fights and defining moments that paved the way for his entry into the 126lb division. As he sets his sights on clashes with boxing greats like Danny Lopez and Salvador Sanchez, the stage is set for a truly epic journey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the opening chapter of a captivating four-part episode, we delve into the early years of Wilfredo Gomez, painting a vivid picture of his humble beginnings and his meteoric rise in the world of boxing. As we follow his journey, we vividly portray the electrifying talent that captured the people's hearts of Puerto Rico, igniting a fervent following as he blazed a trail through the amateur ranks. Transitioning to the professional arena, we vividly illustrate his ascent to the pinnacle of the sport, culminating in a world title Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the climactic conclusion of Floyd's story, we immerse ourselves in the gripping narrative of his two legendary bouts with Sonny Liston. We also uncover his pivotal contributions to the civil rights campaign during the tumultuous 1960s, and ultimately, we encapsulate his storied boxing career and other significant moments in his larger-than-life journey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Step into part three, where Floyd emerges as the youngest heavyweight champion at just 21 years old. Yet, the overwhelming fame takes its toll. We delve into the unraveling of his bond with Cus D'Amato, the epic trilogy with Ingemar Johansson, and other captivating moments beyond the boxing ring. Subscribe https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/career-profiles/id1494210179 We are also available on Player FM, Spotify, Spreaker, and many more podcasting apps Follow us at: https://twitter.com/career_profiles https://www.facebook.com/btrboxingpodcast Become A Patron patreon.com/btrboxingpodcastnetwork Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In part two, Floyd Patterson begins his professional journey by debuting as a middleweight. Cus D'Amato's master plan continues to unfold as Patterson moves up to the heavyweight division, overcoming adversity to become the youngest heavyweight champion in boxing history. Subscribe https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/career-profiles/id1494210179 We are also available on Player FM, Spotify, Spreaker, and many more podcasting apps Follow us at: https://twitter.com/career_profiles https://www.facebook.com/btrboxingpodcast Become A Patron patreon.com/btrboxingpodcastnetwork Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In part one, we introduce the journey of a troubled young Floyd as he grapples to find his purpose in life. His path leads him towards a life of crime until a pivotal incident redirects him to a groundbreaking school that profoundly shapes his future. This crucial moment eventually propels Floyd towards the boxing ring and ultimately into the hands of Cus D'Amato, where his Olympic success would await. Subscribe https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/career-profiles/id1494210179 We are also available on Player FM, Spotify, Spreaker, and many more podcasting apps Follow us at: https://twitter.com/career_profiles https://www.facebook.com/btrboxingpodcast Become A Patron patreon.com/btrboxingpodcastnetwork Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the concluding segment of Lou Duva's career profiles, Sean delves into Evander Holyfield's ascent to the heavyweight title and the pivotal role played by Lou and Main Events and other prominent fighters and champions in the stable. Additionally, the account covers the eventual decline of Main Events and the tragic family events that marked the conclusion of Lou's promotional endeavors. Subscribe https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/career-profiles/id1494210179 We are also available on Player FM, Spotify, Spreaker, and many more podcasting apps Follow us at: https://twitter.com/career_profiles https://www.facebook.com/btrboxingpodcast Become A Patron patreon.com/btrboxingpodcastnetwork Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices